Your TV is probably one of the most expensive screens in your home, and one of the easiest to damage by cleaning it the wrong way. Modern LED, OLED and QLED screens have delicate anti-glare coatings that don't react well to household sprays or rough cloths. Here's the safe way to get a clear picture again.
What You'll Need
- A large, clean microfiber cloth
- A screen-safe cleaner made for electronics
Step 1: Turn It Off and Let It Cool
Switch your TV off and unplug it. Give it a few minutes to cool down. A dark screen shows dust and smudges much more clearly, and a cool screen won't dry cleaner into streaks.
Step 2: Dry Dust First
Gently wipe the screen with a dry microfiber cloth using light, sweeping strokes. For many TVs, this is all you need. Dry dusting removes most of the build-up without any liquid.
Step 3: Treat Smudges With a Damp Cloth
For fingerprints or sticky spots, lightly mist a clean part of the cloth with screen cleaner. If spraying directly on screen use 6-inches to 12-inches of spray distance to keep the droplets in a fine mist.
Step 4: Wipe Without Pressure
Wipe the marked area gently in one direction, then buff dry. Don't press into the screen, especially on OLED panels, which can be damaged by pressure.
Step 5: Don't Forget the Frame and Remote
Wipe down the frame, stand and back vents with your dry cloth. Then clean the remote, which is often one of the most-handled items in the house.
Mistakes That Can Damage Your TV
- Spraying cleaner directly on the screen. It can drip into the bottom edge of the panel.
- Paper towels and rough cloths. They can scratch the coating.
- Harsh chemicals. Many TV makers advise against ammonia, alcohol, solvents and household glass cleaner on their screens.
- Scrubbing hard. Pressure can damage the panel underneath.
Always check your TV maker's manual. Most include a short section on cleaning your specific model.
How Often Should You Clean Your TV?
Dry dust it once a week and deal with smudges as they appear. If you have kids or pets, you'll probably be doing it more often.
Get a Clearer Picture
Our TV cleaning kits come with a large microfiber cloth sized for big screens. Shop TV cleaning → https://tech2clean.com/pages/shop